Hull City legend Dean Windass has paid tribute to a lifelong friend and father-of-three who has died aged 41.

Stephen Pougher, described by the retired striker as a "gentle giant", died peacefully from an illness on August 12, with friends saying he maintained his humour to the end.

Windass grew up with Mr Pougher, who leaves a partner, Kay, and his children from a previous relationship, Dylan, 19, Stephen, 17, and Poppy, 11, in Gipsyville, west Hull.

On Thursday, Hull City Veterans - featuring Windass and other legends who wore the hallowed black-and-amber shirt, such as Peter Skipper and Ian Ashbee - will play Bosun Veterans - the Hessle Road pub side Mr Pougher represented.